Sometimes I sit down and write a letter, e-mail, or card of appreciation to someone (or some organization) for the good work that they do, or the kindness they show me or people I care about. I didn’t always do this, especially in my youth. It is something I started to do more in my late 30s. Of course sometimes if I see them face to face, I might express the appreciation verbally. That is appreciated, but I think that when it’s written down it is often extra special. The person can keep the note or card as a memento of sorts. They may even be used as words of recommendation for others to read. Also, the writing of the expression shows an extra special effort that spoken words might not equal.
I’m writing about this because this new common practice of mine gives me as much pleasure as it likely gives the recipients, and yes, it can be such a nice gift to the recipients. I suppose it gives me such pleasure because as I’ve aged I’ve grown to feel less entitled than when I was a younger woman. When I feel I’ve benefited or learned a lot, I see it as a real gift. Living life can certainly teach people that things don’t always come easy, but when difficulties are eased, even a little bit, it can mean so much.
Many organizations see monetary contributions as expressions of appreciation. Well, they usually do need the money to keep on giving what they give. I try to give as I can, but I can’t give to every organization/person I appreciate all of the time. When I can’t, I still send words of appreciation.
This past year I wrote letters of appreciation to three politicians, a website owner, two mental health-related organizations, a doctor, my therapist, an activist, some friends, a writer, and my hubby (well, those were notes of love). I’ve also shown appreciation to many online friends, including bloggers for things they have written, and their support of my writing. Today one blogger I know wrote about how much comments mean to her. Believe me, I told her that I agree completely. Such comments (often direct or indirect signs of appreciation) can make what was a lousy day, a much improved one.
Thank you cards or notes have long been considered protocol when receiving big gifts, hospitality, kindness, and the like, but even that practice has started to fade out. It’s a shame. I hope those that read this post will be sure to send words of thanks to someone they appreciate soon.
P.S. Huge thanks to all of you who have inspired me with your writing, and who have supported mine. I think my writing has improved because of all of you.
Bird Flight 
I LOVE sending cards, especially Thank You cards. You are right about the happiness it brings to the sender and recipient. I also really appreciate that you do take time to write messages for other bloggers and this is a terrific message to share with others. Gratitude is such a powerful thing.
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Thank you, Intentergy! I’m so glad you enjoy giving thanks, too. I’m sure the recipients of your cards love them. Cards, in particular, are such a nice way to send thanks. The recipients can usually tell you spent good time picking the right ones out.
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This sounds like a really uplifting practice. If I spent my time focusing on those who have been there for me instead of those who have let me down, I think it would go a long way to build gratitude.
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I hope you will, goddessingheart. Believe me when I say it feels good.
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I think it’s a great practice. I don’t know how it works in your job but in my last two positions the attitude is to just tell you when things are wrong, rather than ever say “thank you”. Sure it’s my and everyone else’s job and so it is for a politician you’ve mentioned or your therapist. At the same time, a thank you makes a hell of a lot of difference. I haven’t tried sending thank you notes yet but I try to thank people as a habit for when they help me even in a small way. I remember once an official literally brightening up when I just told her “thank you, you were very helpful”. Your notes a great thing to do and a really nice habit that makes our world a nicer place.
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I’m sorry you receive only negative feedback from your jobs. I think such ways can backfire for management.
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Yes, well, I’m starting my own business now 😉
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zlotybaby, all the best with your business.
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Thank you!
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Beautiful idea. People today are so quick to write letters of complaint, but let the good stuff go by the wayside. I try to do the same when I’ve experienced something really special, but admit I’ve slipped lately. You’ve inspired me to lift my game.
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I’m glad, Jessica. And what you wrote is so true. Complaint letters usually do far outnumber the thank yous.
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Sadly.
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Back in the day, before the advent of personal computers, it was considered proper etiquette to send written letters and cards. My mom, who is 81, sends a birthday card to every single member of the family, including great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. And Christmas cards as well. It’s a lot of work and I commend her for remembering all those dates!
The practice of taking the time to thoughtfully send hand-written notes and cards is almost extinct. I know that whenever I receive a real card in the mail, I keep it. It’s nice being able to touch the paper and think of the person who sent it. Bravo to you for doing this and for this post! 🙂
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Thank you, Melissa!
It’s strange, my father never sent anything to anyone. Only my mother sent cards. But after my mom died my dad started that practice. People are quite impressed.
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Yes, how interesting that your father took on the practice. I commend him for that. As for me, I have sent thank you cards to retiring doctors, night school teachers, art teachers in the past, I even keep a stock of thank you cards and envelopes at home. But l haven’t done it at all recently. So I ‘thank you’ Updownflight for reminding me to send more cards of appreciation.
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I’m glad you’ve got them ready, Sally. It does feel good when they are sent.
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I write songs, musicals for friends I appreciate. I am writing my friend Julia a love letter for her birthday. I already wrote her a song for her birthday. She loved it. I appreciate her friendship. She turns 27 on Sept 27 Irony there. It really means a lot to people when you write them notes.
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That sounds so extremely nice!
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I just sent a nice ‘thank you’ card to a Reverend at my previous church who has been very helpful to me over the years. She is retiring soon and I thanked her for the work she has done in the community and for the love and kindness she extended toward me.
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That’s so nice, Sally! I know the special card will mean a lot to her.
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Lovely post. Comments and appreciation mean a lot to me too.https://thethoughtscribblersblog.wordpress.com/
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